The Albanese government is stepping up efforts to protect the nation’s $75 billion food export industry—including beef, wine, and agriculture supplies. Trade Minister Don Farrell has pledged to stand with Australian farmers and exporters, working tirelessly to secure fair trade terms with the US.
At the same time, Australia is using its critical minerals sector as a key bargaining chip. Dr John Kunkel, senior economics adviser at the United States Studies Centre, highlights the importance of this strategy:
“We want to be as co-operative as possible, and that’s the context of why the critical minerals thing has become notable.”
Despite the government’s diplomatic push, recent US tariff decisions have disappointed Australian officials, who had proposed a comprehensive minerals partnership in exchange for tariff-free access. However, with more tariff announcements expected, the Australian government remains committed to making its case.
Will the strategy pay off?
Read the full story